Veterinarians purchase Monterey condominium

Dr. Dave Johnson has been making the trek from Northern California into Las Vegas each February for the past 30 years.

"That's a lot of Februaries," said the father of three, who has owned and operated Commonwealth Animal Hospital in Fullerton, Calif., in partnership with his wife, Dr. Linda Johnson, since 1978. "That's since before the boys were born."

Now, one of those boys is turning 21 and celebrating this milestone at the family's newly purchased second home at Monterey at the Las Vegas Country Club.

"We bought a timeshare over the years," said Johnson, whose participation in the Western Veterinary Conference each year brings him to the city.

"But even with a timeshare there is the inconvenience of scheduling. You can't just drive down when you want and stay as long as you'd like. During last year's conference, I just happened to pick up an article about Monterey. I drove through and loved it. It was like taking a drive through the country. It's that beautiful. The mature trees, the water features and the birds singing, you can't buy that kind of serenity elsewhere in Las Vegas. We're very lucky."

After a series of health challenges for "Dr. Dave" and "Doc Linda," family time has become even more important, he said.

According to the Drs. Johnson, the choice to purchase at Monterey allows them to spend time with Matthew, 23; David, 15; and Daniel, now 21, comfortably in a condominium that feels like more like a home.

"The boys love it here," David Johnson said. "They love the community and the fact that we're so close to the Strip. And, we love it because of the convenience and beauty."

The Johnson's two-bedroom Augusta I floor plan is equipped with upgraded appliances, slab granite countertops, upgraded flooring, designer two-tone paint, oversized baseboards and private patio -- all included features of each residence.

In addition, the Johnsons' condominium backs onto views of the community's legendary fairways.

Monterey's one- to two-bedroom floor plans offer architectural highlights that may include a private patio or balcony, formal entry, oversized walk-in closet, multiple secondary storage spaces or built-in bookshelves.

Other interior highlights include high-grade flooring, deep-well stainless steel sinks, ceiling fans and custom window treatments. Most models come equipped with a full-size washer and dryer.

A hydro massage spa and five swimming pools -- some secluded, others with views of the golf course and nearby Strip properties -- are outdoor features of the community.

Other amenities include a fitness center and picnic areas with gas barbecues.

Residents can access private streets encircling the golf course for fitness and recreation.

The community has 24-hour gated access with uniformed patrol.

Prices start in the $190,000s. Home buyers may also opt for a $10,000 flexible incentive on floor plans not included in the furniture package incentive program.

To visit, take Interstate 15 and exit Sahara Avenue east, turn right on Paradise Road and left on Karen Avenue. Enter the community through the Las Vegas Country Club gate on Karen Avenue, located between Paradise Road and Maryland Parkway. The sales center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For more information, visit montereylvcc.com or call 796-9700.